A washing machine that smells like mold is more than just unpleasant—it’s a sign that bacteria, mildew, and mold are thriving inside your appliance. If your washing machine smells like mold, your clothes are likely picking up that musty odor too, defeating the entire purpose of doing laundry.
This guide shows you exactly how to eliminate washing machine odors permanently and prevent them from returning.
Why Your Washing Machine Smells Like Mold
When your washing machine smells like mold, the culprit is usually a combination of moisture, detergent residue, and lack of airflow. Here’s what’s happening inside your machine:
Moisture buildup – Water sits in the drum, door seal, and detergent drawer after each cycle, creating the perfect environment for mold growth.
Detergent and fabric softener residue – These products leave behind a film that traps moisture and feeds bacteria.
Front-loader design issues – The rubber door gasket on front-loading washers traps water and debris, making them especially prone to mold.
Low-temperature washes – Cold water cycles don’t kill bacteria or dissolve detergent completely, allowing buildup to accumulate.
How to Eliminate Mold Smell from Your Washing Machine
Method 1: Deep Clean with Vinegar and Baking Soda
This natural solution tackles mold odors without harsh chemicals:
- Pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the detergent dispenser
- Run the hottest, longest cycle available (empty machine)
- When finished, sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda directly into the drum
- Run another hot water cycle
- Wipe down all surfaces with a vinegar-water solution
Method 2: Use Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
Commercial washing machine cleaners contain powerful enzymes that break down mold and residue:
- Place one cleaner tablet directly in the drum
- Run a cleaning cycle or the hottest regular cycle
- Repeat monthly to prevent odors from returning
Method 3: Bleach Treatment for Severe Mold
For washing machines that smell strongly like mold:
- Add 1/2 cup of bleach to the detergent dispenser
- Run the hottest cycle without clothes
- Run an additional rinse cycle to remove bleach residue
- Leave the door open to air dry completely
Warning: Never mix bleach with vinegar or other cleaning products.
Clean the Door Seal and Hidden Areas
The rubber gasket where your washing machine smells like mold the most requires special attention:
- Pull back the rubber door seal carefully
- Spray with a mixture of equal parts water and vinegar
- Scrub with an old toothbrush to remove black mold spots
- Wipe thoroughly with a clean cloth
- Dry completely
Don’t forget to clean the detergent drawer—remove it completely, scrub away residue, and let it dry before replacing.
Prevent Your Washing Machine from Smelling Like Mold Again
Once you’ve eliminated the odor, these habits will keep your washing machine fresh:
Leave the door open after every wash – This allows air circulation and prevents moisture buildup.
Wipe down the door seal weekly – A quick wipe prevents mold from establishing itself.
Use the right amount of detergent – Excess detergent creates residue that feeds mold. Use high-efficiency (HE) detergent for HE machines.
Run a hot water cycle monthly – Heat kills bacteria and dissolves buildup.
Remove wet clothes immediately – Leaving damp laundry in the machine encourages mold growth.
Clean the filter regularly – Check your owner’s manual for filter location and cleaning instructions.
Front-Load vs. Top-Load: Which Smells Like Mold More?
Front-loading washing machines smell like mold more frequently than top-loaders because:
- The horizontal drum retains more water
- The rubber door gasket provides numerous hiding spots for mold
- The airtight seal traps moisture inside
However, top-loaders aren’t immune. They can develop odors in the agitator and around the lid seal.
When to Call a Professional
If your washing machine still smells like mold after multiple deep cleanings, you may have:
- Mold in the drain hose or pump
- A clogged drain system
- Mold behind the drum (requires professional disassembly)
- Plumbing issues causing standing water
A qualified appliance repair technician can diagnose and fix these underlying problems.
The Bottom Line
A washing machine that smells like mold doesn’t have to be a permanent problem. With regular cleaning, proper ventilation, and smart laundry habits, you can eliminate odors for good and keep your machine smelling fresh. Start with a deep clean today, then follow the prevention tips to ensure your washing machine never smells like mold again.
Your clothes—and your nose—will thank you.